South Africa

South Africa encompasses the interior plateau and Great Escarpment, the Drakensberg, Karoo semi-deserts, Mediterranean-climate southwest and humid subtropical eastern coast. This diversity produces a wide range of building responses. Indigenous and vernacular traditions use earth, stone, timber and thatch in circular, courtyard and linear settlements, while regional masonry and timber traditions developed in the Cape and other urban areas; climate remains a major driver of roof form, shade and enclosure.